Subcellular metal partitioning as a novel tool in ecotoxicological elasmobranch assessments: The case of lesser numbfish (Narcine brasiliensis) affected by the Mariana dam disaster in Southeastern Brazil. (April 2022)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Hauser-Davis, Rachel Ann; Monteiro, Fernanda; Willmer, Isabel Quental; Lemos, Leila Soledade; Bordon, Isabella C.; Saint'Pierre, Tatiana Dillenburg; Lutfi, Daniela Silva; Vianna, Marcelo
• Is Part Of: Marine pollution bulletin. Volume 177(2022)
• Publication Date: 2022-04
• Subjects: Elasmobranchii -- Torpediniforme -- Electric ray -- Metal detoxification -- Dam rupture; Marine pollution -- Periodicals; Marine Biology -- Periodicals; Water Pollution -- Periodicals; Mer -- Pollution -- Périodiques; Publications périodiques; Pollution des mers; Lutte antipollution; Electronic journals; 363.7394
• DOI: 10.1016/j.marpolbul.2022.113569
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0025-326X

Abstract

Abstract: This study comprises a novel report on subcellular metal partitioning and metallothionein (MT) metal detoxification efforts in lesser numbfish ( Narcine brasiliensis ) electric ray specimens, as well as the first assessment on MT contents in any ray electric organ. Individuals sampled from an area in Southeastern Brazil affected by the Mariana dam rupture disaster were assessed concerning subcellular metal partitioning and MT metal-detoxification in the liver, gonads, electric organ and muscle of both adults and embryos. Yolk was also assessed when available. Relative total and heat-stable (bioavailable) metal and metalloid comparisons between adults and embryos in different developmental stages demonstrates maternal transfer of both total and bioavailable metals and significant MT associations demonstrate the detoxification of As, Ag, Mn, Ni, Cd, Co, Cu, Se and V through this biochemical pathway. Our findings expand the lacking ecotoxicological assessments for this near-threatened species and indicates significant ecological concerns, warranting further biomonitoring efforts. Graphical abstract: Unlabelled Image Highlights: Novel subcellular metal partitioning findings are reported for lesser numbfish. Novel metallothionein (MT) content sand metal detoxification data are also reported. Maternal transfer of several bioavailable metals and metalloids was observed. MT detoxification of both total and bioavailable metals and metalloids was detected. Embryos are already born contaminated by metals, many in bioavailable form.